Seat assembly, seat extension structure and use of such seat assembly in a vehicle seat

Abstract

A seat assembly (1) is provided that is configured to be integrated into a vehicle seat (2). The seat assembly (1) includes a seat portion (8); a connection structure (10); and a seat extension structure (20). The connection structure (10) is configured to allow the seat portion (8) to be movable between a first height, at which the seat portion (8) is suitable for an adult, and a second height, at which the seat portion (8) is suitable for a child. The seat extension structure (20) is configured to allow the seat portion (8) to be linearly movable between a retracted position, at which the seat portion (8) is suitable for a first size of occupant, and an extended position, at which the seat portion (8) is suitable for a second size of occupant, the first size being smaller than the second size.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a seat assembly configured to be integrated into a vehicle seat, a seat extension structure, and the use of such a seat assembly in a vehicle seat. Background Technology

[0002] Today, many vehicles are designed to include at least one child seat integrated into the vehicle seating system. This integrated child seat is designed as a single piece of the vehicle seat to allow the vehicle seatbelt to be properly positioned on the body when seated. This is achieved by making the vehicle seat height adjustable. However, there is a need for a solution that allows for easy adjustment of the seat length to accommodate the occupant's length and / or provides a support surface with increased depth when necessary. One goal is for children to be able to sit comfortably upright with their legs bent around the front edge. The length of the seating surface is an issue not only when dealing with children versus adults, but also with men versus women, because the average body length of men is greater than that of women. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One object of the present invention is to provide an extendable seat for a vehicle to better allow the seat length to be adapted to the intended occupant, whether the occupant is a child or an adult.

[0004] Another aspect is to provide an extendable seat for vehicles that allows the seat length to be adapted to the total length of the occupant, regardless of age, based solely on leg length.

[0005] These and other objectives, which are apparent from the following overview and description, are achieved by the seat assembly according to the appended claims.

[0006] According to one aspect of the invention, a seat assembly configured for integration into a vehicle seat is provided, the seat assembly comprising: a seat portion; and a connecting structure configured to allow the seat portion to move between a first height and a second height, wherein at the first height the seat portion is adapted to an adult and at the second height a child. The seat assembly is characterized in that it further comprises a seat extension structure configured to allow the seat portion to move linearly between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein in the retracted position the seat portion is adapted to an occupant of a first size and in the extended position the seat portion is adapted to an occupant of a second size, the first size being smaller than the second size.

[0007] Therefore, a seat assembly is provided that allows for dual functionality, including adjustment in both height and length. This seat assembly allows adjustment of the seat height to ensure proper seatbelt adaptation for children. Furthermore, regardless of whether the occupant is a child or an adult, the seat assembly allows adjustment of the seat length to better accommodate the occupant's overall length. Additionally, it allows for adjustment to better accommodate the occupant's thighs. Therefore, with regard to proper seatbelt fitting, the seat assembly allows for improved safety and also improved riding comfort.

[0008] In the context of this invention, the term "occupant size" should be understood as the total length of the body plus the length of the thigh.

[0009] The seat assembly may also include a common operating device configured to selectively allow operation of the connecting structure and the seat extension structure, respectively. Thus, a common operating device allowing for height and length adjustment is provided. This allows for seat designs with large, continuous outer surfaces, which is beneficial for seat manufacturing.

[0010] In one embodiment, the shared operating device may include a handle and an actuator configured to actuate a seat portion to make linear movement between a retracted position and an extended position, and to actuate the seat portion to move between a first height and a second height, wherein the actuator is configured to be selectively operated by pivoting and pulling the handle or by pushing the handle.

[0011] Therefore, although the dual function of the operating device allows for both height and length adjustment, only a single handle is required. This allows for seat designs with large, continuous outer surfaces, which is beneficial for seat manufacturing.

[0012] In another embodiment, the shared operating device may include a handle and an actuator configured to actuate a seat portion to make linear movement between a retracted position and an extended position, and to actuate the seat portion to move between a first height and a second height, wherein the actuator is configured to be selectively operated by pulling the handle or by pushing the handle.

[0013] Therefore, although the dual function of the operating device allows for both height and length adjustment, only a single handle is required. This allows for seat designs with large, continuous outer surfaces, which is beneficial for seat manufacturing.

[0014] The seat extension structure may include a base plate and an extension plate, the extension plate being linearly displaced relative to the base plate, thereby allowing the seat portion to move between a retracted position and an extended position.

[0015] The seat assembly may also include a locking mechanism for holding the extension plate in the extended position, the locking mechanism including a locking arm that can be pivotally supported, and wherein the locking arm is configured to pivot between a locked position and a released position, in which the extension plate is locked relative to the base plate, and in the released position, the extension plate is slidable relative to the base plate.

[0016] The locking arm may include an actuator portion, and the actuator may be configured to operate the actuator portion of the locking arm by pivoting a handle, thereby pivoting the locking arm between a locked position and a released position.

[0017] The locking arm can be biased toward its locked position by a biasing member. By biasing toward the locked position, the locking arm will have a locked default position. This can be seen as a safety measure to prevent the seat from moving accidentally.

[0018] The locking arm can be supported by an extension plate.

[0019] The locking arm may include a protrusion configured to selectively engage a locking portion supported by a base plate. The locking portion may be provided with a rack comprising a plurality of teeth arranged one after another. In an alternative embodiment, the locking portion may be provided by a plurality of recesses or protrusions. Regardless of the form, each tooth, recess, or protrusion represents a possible fixed position of the extendable seat.

[0020] The seat assembly may also include a guiding device comprising at least one convex guiding member and at least one concave guiding member, the at least one concave guiding member being configured to slidably receive the convex guiding member. The concave guiding member may be supported by a base plate, and the convex guiding member may be supported by an extension plate. Alternatively, the concave guiding member may be supported by an extension plate, and the convex guiding member may be supported by a base plate.

[0021] According to another aspect, a seat extension structure for use in a seat assembly is provided. The seat extension structure includes a base plate and an extension plate, the extension plate being linearly displaceable relative to the base plate between a retracted position and an extended position. In the retracted position, a vehicle seat cushion to be disposed on the extension plate is adapted to an occupant of a first size, and in the extended position, the vehicle seat cushion is adapted to an occupant of a second size, the first size being smaller than the second size. The base plate is configured to be fixedly supported by an upper support member of a connection structure of the seat assembly.

[0022] Such seat extension structures and their advantages have been fully discussed above, and these also apply to such seat extension structures. The seat extension structure can be configured as a separate module to be installed into the connecting structure.

[0023] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to the use of a seat assembly having the above-described features in a vehicle seat. The vehicle seat can be used in any type of vehicle, not only in cars and buses, but also in other types of vehicles such as airplanes, trains, and bicycle trailers.

[0024] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of different embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The present invention will be described in detail with reference to the schematic diagram.

[0026] Figures 1A to 1D An implementation of a vehicle seat has been disclosed, in which the seat assembly can be adjusted by raising and extending.

[0027] Figure 2 A perspective view of the seat assembly in both raised and retracted positions has been released.

[0028] Figure 3 A perspective view of the connection structure that forms part of the seat assembly is disclosed.

[0029] Figure 4 Exploded views of the seat assembly that allows for extension have been released.

[0030] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the locking device has been released.

[0031] Figure 6A This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the seat assembly in the retracted position.

[0032] Figure 6B This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a seat assembly in the retracted position but ready to extend to the extended position.

[0033] Figure 6C This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the seat assembly extending into the extended position.

[0034] Figure 6D This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the seat assembly in the extended position.

[0035] Figure 7A This is a first schematic perspective view of the operation using the connection structure of the operating device.

[0036] Figure 7B This is a second schematic perspective view of the operation using the connection structure of the operating device. Detailed Implementation

[0037] Now go to Figures 1A to 1DThe diagram illustrates a seat assembly 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The seat assembly 1 is integrated into a vehicle seat 2 and, together with a seat cushion member 3A mounted on the seat assembly 1, forms an integral, adjustable seat 4. The vehicle seat 2, associated with a conventional seatbelt (not shown), is adjustable by raising and lowering. The seat assembly 1 can be adjusted from a default position (see [reference]). Figure 1A On the left side, where the seat cushion component 3A is flush with the rest of the vehicle seat cushion 3, it is raised to the raised position (see...). Figure 1A (Right-hand side). The raised position allows the child to be positioned at the correct height for the seatbelt to function properly. Seat assembly 1 can return to its first default position, see [link to seat assembly 1]. Figure 1B The seat cushion component 3A is now flush with the rest of the vehicle seat cushion 3.

[0038] See Figure 1C Seat assembly 1 can also be positioned from the default first position (see...) Figure 1C The seat cushion member 3A extends outward in a generally horizontal direction to a second position (on the left side of the seat 2), in which the seat cushion member 3A extends relative to the backrest portion 5 of the vehicle seat 2. This extension allows the vehicle seat 2 to be adapted to the total length of the occupant and the length of their thighs. Therefore, the depth of the vehicle seat 2 can be adjusted to accommodate the length of both children and adults.

[0039] In addition, see Figure 1D Seat assembly 1 can extend outward in a generally horizontal direction, and can also be positioned from the default first position (see...). Figure 1D The left side of the seat is raised to the second position, in which the seat cushion member 3A extends and rises relative to the vehicle seat cushion 3 of the vehicle seat 2.

[0040] Now go to Figure 2 A perspective view of a seat assembly 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed. The disclosed seat assembly 1 is in a raised and retracted position. The seat assembly 1 includes a seat portion 8 configured to support... Figures 1A to 1D Seat cushion components of the disclosed type.

[0041] In the following description, the terms front and back will be used. Unless otherwise stated, the term "front" should be understood as the end of the back of the knee facing a seated passenger, and the term "back" should be understood as the end of the backrest facing the vehicle seat.

[0042] Seat assembly 1 includes a connecting structure 10 forming a first substructure that allows for raising of seat assembly 1 and thus allows for height adjustment of the seat assembly. Seat assembly 1 also includes an extension structure 20 that allows for extension of seat assembly 1 and thus allows for length adjustment of the seat assembly. The invention is primarily directed to the extension structure 20, therefore the connecting structure 10 will be disclosed and discussed very briefly. Seat assembly 1 also includes a common operating device 30 configured to selectively allow operation of the connecting structure 10 and the seat extension structure 20, respectively.

[0043] It should be emphasized that the extension structure 20 can be used as a separate structure in the seat assembly 1, that is, without such a raised connecting structure 10.

[0044] Now refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The connection structure 10 is described. The connection structure 10 includes an upper support member 18 to which the substrate 21 of the extension structure 20 will be attached. The substrate 21 and the extension structure 20 will be discussed below.

[0045] The connecting structure 10 also includes a base segment 11, a first segment 12, a second segment 13, and a support arm 14. The first segment 12 and the second segment 13 are pivotally hinged at their respective opposite ends to the upper support member 18 and the base segment 11. Furthermore, the lower end 15 of the support arm 14 is pivotally hinged to the base segment 11. The upper free end 19 of the support arm 14 is configured to diagonally abut against the upper end of the first segment 12, thereby holding the connecting structure 10 in the raised position.

[0046] Therefore, the connecting structure 10 can be viewed as a foldable thin-walled frame that can be erected in a generally flat configuration (undisclosed) into a quadrilateral configuration with an elevated upper support member 18. The connecting structure 10 is held in its upright position by a support arm 14 that extends diagonally in the upright position. To further maintain the upright form and elevated position of the upper support member 18, the first segment 12 can be biased toward the elevated position by a first elastic member 16. Furthermore, the pivotable support arm 14 can be biased by a second elastic member 17 toward the abutment between the upper free end 19 of the support arm 14 and the upper end of the first segment 12.

[0047] When used in vehicle seat 2, the substantially flat construction means that the seat cushion component 3A is flush with the rest of the vehicle seat cushion 3, such as Figure 1A As shown on the left side. Accordingly, the raised position means that the seat cushion component 3A is raised, as... Figure 1A As shown on the right side.

[0048] The connection structure 10 can be operated by the operating device 30, which includes a handle 32, as will be referred to below. Figure 7A and Figure 7B As described above. By pushing the handle 32, the connecting structure 10 can be configured to stand upright in its raised position.

[0049] Now turn to the extension structure 20 that allows the seat assembly 1 to extend. As described above, the extension structure 20 can be supported by the connecting structure 10 via the upper support member 18 of the connecting structure 10. It should be emphasized again that the extension structure 20 can be used as a separate structure in the seat assembly 1, that is, without such a connecting structure 10 that allows for elevation.

[0050] The extension structure 20 includes a substrate 21 and an extension plate 22. The extension plate 22 is linearly displaceable relative to the substrate 21 between a retracted position and an extended position. In the retracted position, see [reference needed]. Figure 2 as well as Figure 1C The left-hand portion, to be arranged onto the extension plate 22, the vehicle seat cushion 3A is suitable for a first-sized occupant, in the extended position, see [reference]. Figure 1C On the right side, the vehicle seat cushion 3A is suitable for a second-sized occupant, which is larger than the first size.

[0051] like Figures 2 to 4 As best shown, the substrate 21 can be fixedly supported by the upper support member 18 of the connecting structure 10. In the disclosed embodiment, this is achieved by arranging bolts (not shown) that are configured to extend through holes 81 in the upper support member 18 of the connecting structure 10 and holes 82 in the substrate 21. A lip 83 in the front end of the upper support member 18 is configured to extend through a corresponding groove 84 in the front wall portion 41 of the substrate 21.

[0052] Now go to Figure 4 An exploded view of the extension structure 20 of the seat assembly 1 is disclosed. The extension structure 20 will from now on be described as a separate structure of the seat assembly 1.

[0053] The structure includes a base plate 21 and an extension plate 22. The extension plate 22 is configured to be linearly and slidably displaced relative to the base plate 21 and is also locked in two or more extended positions relative to the base plate 21. The base plate 21 and the extension plate 22 each include a rear end configured to face the backrest of the vehicle seat 2 and a front end configured to face the knee rest of the passenger.

[0054] The locking of the extension plate 22 relative to the base plate 21 is provided by a locking mechanism configured to be positioned between the base plate 21 and the extension plate 22. The locking mechanism includes a locking plate 23 configured to be supported by the top wall 24 of the base plate 21 and a locking arm device 25 configured to be supported by the extension plate 22.

[0055] The locking arm device 25 is configured to be supported by the extension plate 22 and extend at least partially toward the base plate 21 in a downward direction via a through opening 26 in the extension plate 22. The locking arm device 25 is configured to be mounted to the extension plate 22 and concealed by a cover plate 27 configured to be disposed on the top wall 28 of the extension plate 22.

[0056] The locking arm device 25 includes a locking arm 29, which is configured to selectively engage the locking plate 23.

[0057] Furthermore, the locking mechanism is configured to be operated by an operating device 30, which includes an actuator 31 configured to allow actuation of the locking arm 29. The actuator 31 is operated by a handle 32, which is pivotally supported by a bracket 33. The actuator device 30 is configured to be at least partially received within a housing 34. The housing 34 is configured to be supported by an extension plate 22.

[0058] Additionally, the structure constituting the seat assembly 1 includes two optional guide devices 35. The two guide devices 35 are configured to be symmetrically arranged on opposite sides of the locking arm device 25.

[0059] Each guide device 35 includes a support 36 configured to be mounted to the lower surface 37 of the extension plate 22. Each support 36 includes a protruding rod 38 forming a convex guide member 39. The free end of each rod 38 is configured to extend through a mating hole 40 in the front wall portion 41 of the substrate 21. The mating hole 27 forms a concave guide portion 42. Thus, the two guide devices 35 facilitate linear displacement of the extension plate 22 relative to the substrate 21.

[0060] Now go to Figure 5 The details of the locking mechanism will be discussed below. As described above, the locking mechanism includes a locking plate 23 and a locking arm assembly 25. The locking arm assembly 25 includes a support plate 43 and a locking arm 29.

[0061] Starting with locking arm 29, locking arm 29 includes a longitudinally extending body having a front end and a rear end. The front end includes an actuator portion 44. Additionally, the front end includes a first through opening 45 and a second through opening 46, which will be described below. The middle portion of locking arm 29 includes two ears 47 (only one disclosed) extending parallel to the longitudinal extension of locking arm 29. Each ear 47 includes a hole 48 configured to receive a shaft (not disclosed). The rear end of locking arm 29 includes a protrusion 49. Locking arm 29 is configured to be pivotally supported by a support plate 43. Locking arm 29 is pivotable between a locked position and a released position.

[0062] As described above, the support plate 43 is configured to be supported by the lower surface 37 of the extension plate 22. The support plate 43 includes three screw towers 50 on its upper surface, which are configured to receive screws or bolts (not shown) for mounting the support plate 43 to the extension plate 22.

[0063] The upper surface of the support plate 43 includes an aperture 51 in its middle portion, the aperture having an extension transverse to the longitudinal extension of the locking arm 29. The aperture 51 is configured to receive a pin (not shown) that is configured to pivotally support the locking arm 29 through a pin extending through a hole 48 in the ear 47 of the locking arm 29 and through the aperture 51 in the support plate 43.

[0064] The support plate 43 includes a through opening 52. The opening 52 is configured to allow a protrusion 49 of the locking arm 29 to extend at least partially through the opening when the locking arm 29 pivots relative to the support plate 43, thereby lockingly engaging a protrusion or recess in the locking plate 23, which will be discussed below.

[0065] The front end of the support plate 43 includes a pin 53 protruding from the upper surface of the support plate 43. The pin 53 supports a biasing member 54 arranged coaxially in the form of a helical spring. The free end 55 of the pin 53 is configured to extend through a first through opening 45 in the locking arm 29. The biasing member 54 thus acts on the locking arm 29 and pivots the locking arm toward the locked position.

[0066] The locking plate 23 is configured to be mounted to the top wall 24 of the base plate 21, for example, by bolting or riveting. The disclosed embodiment includes a bolt receiving hole 55 at each corner of the locking plate 23. The central portion of the top wall 56 of the locking plate 23 includes a locking portion 57. In the disclosed embodiment, the locking portion 57 is configured as a strip including a plurality of protrusions 58 arranged one after another with a central recess 59.

[0067] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the locking portion 57 can be arranged in a variety of ways to maintain its function. The locking portion 57 can, for example, be configured as a rack comprising a plurality of teeth arranged one after another. In yet another example, the locking portion can be configured as a plurality of holes arranged one after another.

[0068] Regardless of form or number, each recess 59 or protrusion 58 represents a possible fixing position for the extension plate 22 relative to the substrate 21.

[0069] The protrusion 49 of the locking arm 29 is configured to selectively engage the recess 59 in the locking portion 57 when the locking arm 29 is pivoted to its locked position. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the design of the protrusion 49 determines whether the protrusion 58 or the recess 59 is engaged. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that the shape of the protrusion 49 should be appropriate to the type of locking portion 57 used.

[0070] The front end of the locking plate 23 includes two protruding ears 60. The ears 60 are aligned with the longitudinal extension of the locking portion 57. Each ear 60 includes a hole 61 configured to receive a shaft (not shown) configured to pivotally support a bracket 33 that forms part of the actuator device 30 and will be further described below.

[0071] Now go to Figures 6A to 6D The operation of seat assembly 1 will be described. Figures 6A to 6D Both disclose partial cross-sections extending along the longitudinal centerline of the locking arm 29.

[0072] from Figure 6A Initially, seat assembly 1 is in its innermost position, that is, extension plate 22 is fully retracted relative to base plate 21.

[0073] In this position, the locking arm 29 is biased toward its locked position by the biasing member 54, in which the protrusion 49 of the locking arm 29 is lockedly residing in the recess 59A formed between the last two protrusions 58A, 58B of the locking portion 32. This prevents any linear displacement of the extension plate 22 relative to the substrate 21.

[0074] The biasing member 54 acts between the support surface 62 in the support plate 43 and the inner wall portion 63 of the locking arm 29. This is the default position that constitutes the locking position.

[0075] exist Figure 6A It can also be seen that the actuator 31 of the operating device 30 abuts against the actuator portion 44 on the outer wall portion 64 of the locking arm 29.

[0076] A cover 27 disposed on top of the extension plate 22 provides encapsulation for the locking mechanism, preventing the seat cushion member disposed on top of the extension plate 22 from interfering with the locking mechanism. Additionally, the housing 34 encloses the front end of the seat assembly 1, thereby preventing the operator or seated occupant from inserting his / her fingers into the mechanism. The encapsulation is also shown in… Figure 2 middle.

[0077] Go to Figure 6B This illustrates the start of the process of extending seat assembly 1. Extension is performed by the operator grasping handle 32 and pivoting it clockwise, see arrow A. Figure 7A and Figure 7BAs shown, the handle 32 can be pivotally connected to the connector 33.

[0078] The handle 32 is connected to the actuator 31 via a protrusion 65 that serves as a drive. Therefore, pivoting of the handle 32 will also cause pivoting of the first actuator 31 by means of the drive 65. As a result, the actuator 31 will act on the actuator portion 44 of the locking arm 29, see arrow B. This will cause the locking arm 29 to pivot, thereby compressing the biasing member 54, while the protrusion 49 at the opposite end of the locking arm 29 will release its engagement with the recess 59A of the locking plate 23, see arrow C. Thus, the extension plate 22 is freely linearly displaced by sliding relative to the base plate 21 to extend the seat assembly 1.

[0079] Go to Figure 6C The extension plate 22 is disclosed to be linearly extended relative to the base plate 21 so as to set the seat assembly 1 to the extended position. Extension is performed by pulling the handle 32 (see arrow D) while holding the handle 32 in a pivot position.

[0080] As a safety measure, when the grip on handle 32 should be released or if the handle should be pivoted counterclockwise, the locking arm 29 will automatically pivot towards its locked position due to its bias, where the protrusion 49 relocks into the recess 59 in the locking plate 23. Therefore, although the seat assembly 1 is extendable, it requires active operation, i.e., applying a pivoting force to handle 32 to release the locking engagement between the locking arm 29 and the locking plate 23. This is in Figure 6D As shown, the seat assembly 1 is fully extended and the protrusion 49 of the locking arm 29 lockably engages the outermost recess 59G between the two protrusions 58G, 58H at the front end of the locking plate 23.

[0081] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the number of protrusions 58 and recesses 59 in the locking plate 23 can vary depending on the desired number of locking steps for the seat assembly 1.

[0082] As described above and with reference Figure 4 The seat assembly 1 discussed includes a guide device 35. A portion of the guide device 35 is also... Figure 6D The figure illustrates how the two supports 36 of the guiding device are arranged to the top wall 24 of the substrate 21 and on the opposite side of the locking plate 23. When the extension plate 22 is displaced relative to the substrate 21, the two supports 36 facilitate strictly linear guidance of the extension plate 22 relative to the substrate 21. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the guiding device 35 can be arranged in various ways to maintain its function. As an alternative embodiment not disclosed, the guiding effect may be formed, for example, by a track configured to be received in a mating groove.

[0083] Now go to Figure 7A and Figure 7B It schematically discloses how the operating device 30 is used not only to operate the seat extension structure 20 but also to operate the connecting structure 10.

[0084] The handle 32 is pivotally connected to the bracket 33. The bracket 33 includes opposing ears 85 having corresponding through holes 86. The handle 32 is pivotally connected to the bracket 33 via a shaft 87 extending through the holes 86. Furthermore, the bracket 33 includes two fingers 88. The fingers 88 are configured to interact with a pivotable arm 89, which will be described below.

[0085] The locking plate 23, supported by the locking plate, includes two lugs 60. Each lug 60 pivotally supports an arm 89. The first free end 90 of the arm 89 constitutes an actuator portion 91. The two arms 89 are interconnected by a shaft 93 extending between the second ends 92 of the respective arms 89. The middle portion of the shaft 93 is connected to a wire 94. The wire 94 is in turn connected to a setting mechanism (not shown) of the connection structure 10.

[0086] By applying pressure to the handle 32 (see arrow A), the fingers 88 of the support 33 will act on the actuator portion 91 (see arrow B). This will cause the arm 89 to pivot (see arrow C), thereby applying tension to the wire 94 by the shaft 93, as the second end 92 of the arm 92 supporting the shaft 93 will pivot toward the handle 32 (see arrow D). This tension is then used by the setting mechanism (not shown) of the connecting structure 10 to erect the connecting structure 10 into a quadrilateral configuration with the raised upper support member 18.

[0087] When handle 32 is released, it is biased to automatically return to its initial position. This applies regardless of whether handle 32 is pushed or pivoted. This biasing is provided by a set of biasing members 66 arranged on support plate 43, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 5 as well as Figure 7A and Figure 7B The free end 67 of each biasing member 66 is configured to act on the rear wall portion of the support 33.

[0088] Therefore, the operating device 30 is a shared operating device, configured to selectively allow operation of the connecting structure 10 and the seat extension structure 20. Thus, the operating device has dual functions of height adjustment and length adjustment.

[0089] Those skilled in the art will recognize that features from the various embodiments disclosed herein can be combined with each other to provide other alternative embodiments.

[0090] For example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the substrate of the extended structure can form the upper support member of the connecting structure.

Claims

1. A seat assembly (1) configured to be integrated into a vehicle seat (2), the seat assembly (1) comprising: Seating section (8); and A connecting structure (10) is configured to allow the seat portion (8) to move between a first height and a second height, at the first height being suitable for an adult and at the second height being suitable for a child. Its features The seat assembly (1) further includes a seat extension structure (20) configured to allow the seat portion (8) to move linearly between a retracted position and an extended position, in which the seat portion (8) is adapted to an occupant of a first size, and in the extended position, the seat portion (8) is adapted to an occupant of a second size, the first size being smaller than the second size, wherein the seat assembly (1) further includes a common operating device (30) configured to selectively allow operation of the connecting structure (10) and the seat extension structure (20), respectively, and, The common operating device (30) includes a handle (32) and an actuator (31) configured to actuate the seat portion (8) to make linear movement between the retracted position and the extended position, and to actuate the seat portion (8) to move between a first height and a second height, wherein the actuator (31) is configured to be selectively operated by pivoting and pulling the handle (32) or by pushing the handle (32).

2. The seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the common operating device (30) comprises a handle (32) and an actuator (31) configured to actuate the seat portion (8) to make linear movement between the retracted position and the extended position, and to actuate the seat portion (8) to move between the first height and the second height, and wherein the actuator (31) is configured to be selectively operated by pulling the handle (32) or by pushing the handle (32).

3. The seat assembly according to claim 1, The seat extension structure (20) includes a base plate (21) and an extension plate (22) which is linearly displaceable relative to the base plate (21), thereby allowing the seat portion (8) to move between the retracted position and the extended position.

4. The seat assembly of claim 3 further includes a locking mechanism for holding the extension plate (22) in the extended position, the locking mechanism including a locking arm (29) that can be pivotally supported, wherein the locking arm (29) is configured to pivot between a locked position and a released position, in which the extension plate (22) is locked relative to the base plate (21), and in the released position, the extension plate (22) is slidable relative to the base plate (21).

5. The seat assembly of claim 4, wherein the locking arm (29) includes an actuator portion (44), and wherein the actuator (31) is configured to operate the actuator portion (44) of the locking arm (29) by pivoting the handle (32), thereby pivoting the locking arm (29) between the locked position and the released position.

6. The seat assembly according to any one of claims 4-5, wherein the locking arm (29) is biased toward its locking position by the biasing member (54).

7. The seat assembly according to any one of claims 4-5, wherein the locking arm (29) is supported by the extension plate (22).

8. The seat assembly according to any one of claims 4-5, wherein the locking arm (29) includes a protrusion (49) configured to selectively engage a locking portion (57) supported by the base plate (21).

9. The seat assembly of claim 1 further includes a guide device (35) comprising at least one convex guide member (39) and at least one concave guide portion (42), the at least one concave guide portion being configured to slidably receive the convex guide member (39).

10. Use of a seat assembly according to any one of claims 1-9 in a vehicle seat.

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